Unions join Martinique protests

Protests in Martinique have intensified as two major unions join forces against soaring living costs, prompting France to send in anti-riot police. On Tuesday, traffic ground to a halt after a transportation union organized blockades with tractor-trailers and halted public bus services.

Another union representing health workers, local authorities, and the private sector announced an indefinite strike set to start Thursday. Their demands include increasing the minimum wage, raising retirement pensions, and implementing price controls on essential goods.

These demonstrations, which began in early September, have escalated into violence, injuring at least six police officers and one civilian last week. The unrest reflects growing frustration over economic conditions in the region.

Protestors have gathered throughout Martinique defying government orders banning demonstrations in major cities.  Protests broke out on the island last week over the high cost of living

In a press release officials said the bans were meant “to put an end to the violence and damage committed at gatherings, as well as to the numerous obstacles to daily life and freedom of movement that penalize the entire population, particularly at weekends.”

France has given approval for a special anti-riot force to Martinique, a method that has been banned for the past 65 years.